Luc Besson's Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets is a sci-fi spectacle that offers more than just dazzling effects-it delivers a well-constructed, thought-provoking story with themes of war, corruption, and cover-ups, handled in a way that feels organic and refreshingly original. Unlike Avatar's Pocahontas-in-space rehash, Valerian seamlessly weaves its political and moral undertones into the narrative, making its message resonate without feeling forced.
Dane DeHaan and Cara Delevingne lead the charge as Valerian and Laureline, bringing charm and energy to their dynamic. Their chemistry-playful yet sincere-elevates the film's core relationship beyond standard blockbuster fare. Clive Owen delivers a suitably layered performance as Commander Arun Filitt. Meanwhile, Ethan Hawke's eccentric turn as Jolly the Pimp and Rihanna's scene-stealing role as the shape-shifting entertainer Bubble add further depth and intrigue. The supporting cast shines as well, with memorable performances from Sasha Luss and Sam Spruell, while Rutger Hauer makes a brief but notable cameo.
Besson's eye for world-building brings Pierre Christin and Jean-Claude Mézières' iconic comic to life with a level of imagination and detail rarely seen in modern sci-fi. The night production vaules, music, and effects make Alpha, the sprawling city of a thousand planets, feel alive, teeming with diverse species and cultures. The set pieces deliver edge-of-your-seat action. Its lengthy run time also gives it time to breathe.
At its core, Valerian is more than just a visual feast-it's a bold and engaging adventure that balances its grandeur with an intelligent, subversive narrative. Though underappreciated upon release, its originality and ambition make it a standout entry in the sci-fi genre.
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